US9533122B2 - Catheter drive system with control handle rotatable about two axes separated from housing by shaft - Google Patents

Abstract

Drive systems and methods of use are disclosed herein for performing medical procedures on a patient. The drive systems include various handle types and triggers for controlling catheters and end effectors. The various handle types include a flexible handle and ambidextrous handles that can alter the handedness of the handle for particularized use. The handles drive articulation sections of the catheter and end effectors with various degrees of freedom, and include locks for holding the catheter and/or end effector in place. The catheter systems include structures for allowing degrees of freedom, such as notches, mechanical interlocks, and articulation joints. In addition, the catheters articulate via cables or fluids.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional Application No. 60/938,924 entitled “Drive Systems and Methods of Use,” filed May 18, 2007.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional surgical tools, such as endoscopic and laparoscopic devices, can provide surgical access to surgical sites while minimizing patient trauma. Although the growing capabilities of such therapeutic devices allow users to perform an increasing variety of surgeries through traditional minimally invasive routes, further refinements may allow surgical access through even less invasive routes and/or facilitate conventional surgical procedures. Currently some robotic systems have been proposed to allow surgical access via a natural orifice. The user interface is remote from surgical tools and/or end effectors. Unfortunately, these systems are generally expensive and complicated. In addition, they fail to provide the tactile user feedback that traditional devices can provide.

Accordingly, there is room for further refinement to surgical devices and a need to develop new surgical systems.

SUMMARY

An embodiment includes a tool for use in performing medical procedures on a patient. The tool can include various novel handle types and triggers for controlling a catheter and/or end effector. In one embodiment, a control member (or control handle) allows a user to control one, two, three, four, five, six, or more than six degrees of freedom. The control handle controls degrees of freedom via a bendable shaft in one embodiment.

The handle also provides for ambidextrous use in an embodiment. The user can change the handedness of the handle and/or stand the handle on its end in a joystick configuration for a particularized use. These handles can also change orientation in other ways. By manipulating handle orientation, a user can more easily articulate a catheter and/or actuate an end effector.

In one embodiment, catheter articulation is accomplished by creating tension along cables via a spring-loaded pin, while, in another embodiment, the spring-loaded pin is absent. In still another embodiment, fluid pathways, instead of cables, articulate the articulation section of a catheter. The articulation section can lock into a particular position or shape in at least one embodiment.

The articulation section of a catheter can include notches to allow articulation. In another embodiment, the articulation section includes ball sockets. In still another embodiment, articulation joints facilitate the catheter articulation.

Additional objects and advantages of the embodiments will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments. The objects and advantages of the embodiments will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the embodiments, as claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary perspective view of a tool comprising a control member, catheter, and end effector, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 1A is an exemplary perspective view of a drive system including a first tool adapted for use by a left hand and a second tool adapted for use by a right hand, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2A is an exemplary illustration of inner components of a tool, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2B is an exemplary illustration of tool components in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 2C and 2D are exemplary illustrations of a trunnion within a control member, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2E is an exemplary illustration of a trunnion with a double-pulley system and a control stem in a neutral position, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2F is an exemplary illustration of a trunnion with a double-pulley system and a control stem turning clockwise, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2G is an exemplary illustration of trigger mechanism components in accordance with an embodiment herein.

FIGS. 2H and 2I are exemplary illustrations of another trigger mechanism in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 2J and 2K are exemplary illustrations of a “firewall” coupling mechanism for coupling the control member to one or more control cables.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-section of the distal end of a control mechanism with an adjuster, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of a handle with a joystick configuration, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary illustration of an alternative handle orientation, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are exemplary illustrations of a handle with a flexible shaft, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 7A through 7C are exemplary illustrations of another handle with a flexible shaft, incorporating a grip, in accordance with an embodiment

FIGS. 8A through 8D are exemplary illustrations of gears that permit a user to control degrees of freedom, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 9A through 9C are exemplary illustrations of an ambidextrous handle being changed from right-handedness to left-handedness by detaching and flipping the handle, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 9D and 9E are exemplary illustrations of an ambidextrous control handle with a split grip being changed from right-handedness to left-handedness by rotating the grip portions, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 9F is an exemplary illustration of an ambidextrous handle that can change handedness by rotating around an axis, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 9G is an exemplary illustration of an ambidextrous control handle that can be flipped in order to change handedness, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 9H is an exemplary illustration of another ambidextrous control handle that can be flipped in order to change handedness, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 9I through 9K are exemplary illustrations of ambidextrous handles that can also be changed into a joystick configuration, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 9L is an exemplary illustration of a handle that can change between joystick configuration and side configuration, also including a rocker mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 10A through 10C are exemplary illustrations of a catheter having a continuous body section with cut-outs that allow for articulation, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 11A through 11C are exemplary illustrations of a catheter having multiple articulating ball sockets, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 12A through 12G are exemplary illustrations of catheters having additional types of multiple articulating ball sockets, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 13A through 13D are exemplary illustrations of catheters having articulation joints, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 14A through 14E are exemplary illustrations of a tool including hydraulic control of the catheter, in accordance with an embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Described below are exemplary embodiments of tools that allow a user to perform a procedure, such as a surgical procedure, at a distance. In one aspect, a tool generally includes a proximal user interface (referred to herein as a control member or handle), an elongate catheter body, and a distal end. The proximal control member can control movement of the catheter and/or an end effector positioned proximate to the distal end of the tool. The tools described herein permit control of one, two, three, four, five, six, or more than six degrees of freedom via the handle and/or control member.

In one embodiment, user input forces upon the handle can control movement of the handle relative to the control member and/or can control movement of the (entire) tool relative to a reference point (e.g., relative to a patient). For example, movement of the handle can control articulation of a catheter articulation section and/or actuation of an end effector. In one aspect, movement of the handle can drive one, two, three, or more than three degrees of freedom of the catheter and/or end effector. In another aspect, moving the control member (e.g., rotational and/or longitudinal movement relative to a point of reference) can control one, two, or more than two degrees of freedom.

The tools described herein can be used with a variety of surgical or non-surgical system, including, for example, those described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/946,779; 11/946,790; 11/946,799; 11/946,807; 11/946,812; and 11/946,818, which are incorporated herein by reference.

While the discussion of devices, systems, and methods below may generally refer to “surgical tools,” “surgery,” or a “surgical site” for convenience, the described devices, systems, and their methods of use are not limited to tissue resection and/or repair procedures. In particular, the described systems can be used for inspection and diagnosis in addition, or as an alternative, to surgery.

FIG. 1 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of atool10 comprising acontrol member20,catheter22, and endeffector24.Control member20 is illustrated in more detail inFIGS. 2A through 2G and can include ahandle26 that allows a user to control actuation ofcatheter22 and atrigger28 that allows a user to actuate the end effector.

In one embodiment,control member20 includes abody30 that houses a control mechanism for transferring user inputs onhandle26 tocatheter22 and/orend effector24. User input forces can be directed into pull and/or push forces on one or more control wires that extend between the control mechanism and the catheter articulation section and/or end effector. As used herein, “control cable” refers to the various filaments, wires, cables, bowden cables (inner cable and/or outer sheath) which can transmit user inputs between the control mechanism and the distal portion of the catheter. Descriptions of exemplary cables, catheters, and end effector are disclosed below and in the above referenced United States Patent Applications.

Described below and illustrated inFIGS. 2A through 2G are various exemplary control mechanisms. In one aspect, user inputs to the handle can rotate or pivot at least a portion of the control mechanism. Rotation around a first axis can control one degree of movement of the catheter and rotation around a second axis can control a second degree of freedom.Tool10 can also, or alternatively, include a trigger mechanism for driving an additional degree of freedom. In one aspect, the trigger mechanism is position, at least partially, on or in the handle oftool10. As used herein, the term “trigger mechanism” can refer to the variety of switches, buttons, rockers, and/or other such features for mechanically or hydraulically driving a degree of freedom, such as, for example, movement of the end effector.

As shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B, handle26 can be rotatably coupled to the body ofcontrol member20 such that the handle is able to move forward and aft. In one aspect, the handle rotatably couples withside rails310aand310bto rotate about axis B-B. The rails are included as part of the housing and/or frame in one embodiment. In addition, handle26 can rotate about an axis, such as, for example, an axis A-A defined by or parallel withshaft320. Movement of the handle back and forth during rotation about axis B-B can cause the distal tip of thetool10 to move in one plane while rotation ofhandle26 about the longitudinal axis A-A of theshaft320 can cause movement of the distal tip of thetool10 in another plane. As shown inFIG. 2A, rotation axes A-A and B-B are different from the longitudinal axis C-C of the body ofcontrol member20.

The handle can be secured toside rails310aand310bwith atrunnion316.Trunnion316 includes a pair of outwardly extendingposts318a,318bthat fit in corresponding holes formed inside rails310a,310b. The connection between the posts and side rails can allow movement of the trunnion within the control member. In one aspect, a mating mechanism such as, for example, a snap ring or other fastener can secureposts318a,318binto the side rails. Alternatively, or additionally, the post can be secured by sandwiching between the side rails.

Forward/aft movement of the handle can pivottrunnion316, for example, around an axis B-B extending throughposts318a,318b. The trunnion can mate with control cables such that pivoting the trunnion applies for to one or more control cables and drives at least one degree of freedom. The trunnion can include a pair ofcable receivers356,358 having a slot or other receptacle therein that secures an end of an articulation cable. As shown inFIGS. 2C and 2D, one of thecable receivers358 is below the pivot point oftrunnion316, and the other is above the pivot point. Upon tiltingtrunnion316 in the control member, thecable receivers356,358 selectively tension or release control cables that move the distal tip oftool10.

FIGS. 2C and 2D illustrate further detail oftrunnion316. The control mechanism can include a stop to limit the amount of forward and aft movement of thehandle26. In one aspect, aring340 fits over the posts oftrunnion316 and has anotch342 therein. Apin344 secured in the side rail (not shown) limits how far the handle can travel by engaging the ends of thenotch342. Other structures besides pins can also be used. While the FIGS. illustrate a ring/pin configuration, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of alternative mechanisms can be used to limit motion of the cable guide plate. In addition, the illustrated configuration could be reversed such that the notch could be located on the side rail and the pin could be located on the trunnion.

Trunnion316 can further includes an opening or slot in which a cable guide plate ordisk328 is located. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS. 2B, 2C, and 2D,cable guide plate328 is generally circular and mates with at least one control cable. In one aspect,guide plate328 includes agroove330 therein in which controlcable332cis fitted. In addition,cable guide plate328 can include anotch334athat receives acorresponding cable stop336 that is secured tocable332c(while a single notch/stop/cable is illustrated, additional notches, stops, and/or cables are contemplated). Movement of the cable guide plate causes corresponding tension or relaxing ofcable332c.

Thecable guide plate328 can be fitted into a slot within the trunnion such that it lies behind thestop plate326. In one aspect, theshaft320 fits through a corresponding hole in thecable guide plate328 and a snap ring or other fastening mechanism secures the components together. Rotation of thehandle26 causes a corresponding rotation of theshaft320 which in turn is coupled to thecable guide plate328 to tension orrelease cable332c.

Cable332 is illustrated as wrapped arounddisk328 more than 360 degrees. In another aspect, cable332 can be wrapped around the disk more than about 180 degrees, and in another aspect more than about 270 degrees. In yet another aspect, cable332 mates todisk328 without wrapping around a portion of the disc. In embodiments where the control mechanism includes a force limiter, the cable may also attach to the force limiter.

While asingle cable332cis illustrated as mated withdisk328, in another embodiment two control cables can mate with the disk. Rotation in a first direction can tension one of the two cables, while rotation in the other direction tensions the other of the two cables.

In one aspect,trunnion316 further includes astop plate326 that provides an anchor for the ends ofcontrol cable sheaths332a,332b, or more particularly, the sheaths of bowden cables.Control cable332a, mated withdisk328, can extend throughbowden cable sheaths332a,332b. Thestop plate326 pivots up and down with thetrunnion316 as thehandle26 is moved forward and aft. The bowden cables can permit the trunnion to pivot around posts318a,318b(controlling one degree of freedom) without (or with minimal) effect oncontrol cable332a(which controls a different degree of freedom).

Also shown inFIGS. 2C and 2D is acontrol cable346 that is actuated by thetrigger mechanism28 on the handle. Depressingtrigger28 causes a tensioning of thecable346 to actuate, for example, anend effector24 at the distal end of the tool. In the illustrated embodiment,cable346 is a bowden-type cable having anouter sheath348 with one end secured to acable stop350 positioned on the shaft320 (orcollar324, or handle26). The cable is not exposed outside the handle in one embodiment. The other end of the bowden cable housing extends through across bar354 and joins a stop at the distal end of the catheter. Thecrossbar354 also includes stops for thebowden cable housings332a,332bthat are driven by rotation of the handle as described above.

FIGS. 2E and 2F illustrate a trunnion with a dual pulley (or dual disk) system that serves as an alternate embodiment to the single-pulley system previously described. As used herein, the pulley or disk can comprise a rotating mechanism and is not limited to a circular member. As the tool handle is rotated in a first and second direction, the double-pulley configuration can apply a pulling force oncontrol wire332aor332a′ without pushing on the other ofcontrol wires332a,332a′. Atop pulley335acorresponds tofirst cable332a, and abottom pulley335bcorresponds tocable332b. Each pulley contains only one control cable332dand332e. Typically, the twopulleys332aand332bare stacked on top of one another, separated by a frictionless washer, such as a piece of Teflon™.

Atop pin337adrives thetop pulley335a, while a bottom pin (not shown) drives thebottom pulley335b. Unlike the single-pulley embodiment, the top and bottom pulleys each include arut334b, such that therespective pin337acan rotate freely in therut334bwithout driving the respective pulley. Although referred to herein as pins, both thetop pin337aand bottom pin (not pictured) can have other shapes, such as a protrusion with a flat surface for engaging the stop.

FIG. 2E illustrates a double-pulley trunnion with the control stem320 in a neutral position. In this position, a counterclockwise turn of thecontrol stem320 will engage thetop pin337awith the stop oftop pulley335a. As a result,top pulley335apulls onfirst cable332a, and the catheter bends. However, the bottom pin (not shown) swings in the rut of thebottom pulley335b, and does not forcebottom pulley335bto rotate.

Conversely,FIG. 2F illustrates the double pulley interaction when thecontrol stem320 rotates clockwise. Thetop pin337arotates inrut334b, and consequently does not push or pullfirst cable332a. On the other hand, the bottom pin engages the stop of thebottom pulley335b, and thebottom pulley335brotates clockwise. This rotation applies tension to the right wire, which is pulled towards thebottom pulley335b.

As a result, neitherwire332agets forcefully pushed out by the top orbottom pulleys335aand335b. Instead, the pulleys only pull on their respective wires. However, in one embodiment, the wires are free to move back to respond to other tensions applied on the catheter.

Further detail of one embodiment of atrigger mechanism28 is shown inFIG. 2G. In the illustrated embodiment, thetrigger28 is rotatably received within thehandle26 such that squeezing thetrigger28 causes it to rotate about a pivot point. Thetrigger28 includes anarm360 to which an end of theactuation cable346 is secured. As thearm360 is moved by pressing the trigger, tension on thecontrol cable346 is increased to actuate the end effector. A roller orpulley362 changes the direction of thecontrol cable346 from within the handle to a direction that extends along theshaft320.

FIGS. 2H and 2I illustrate another embodiment of a trigger mechanism that includes abutton366 for activating the distal end oftool10. Abowden cable368 can extend intohandle26 to triggermechanism370. The second end of the outer sheath372 of the bowden cable extends in clearance throughcrossbar354 and through the body of surgical tool where it terminates proximate to end effector. The outer sheath372 of thebowden cable368 can mate with astop374 in the trigger mechanism while the inner filament376 extends intotrigger mechanism370. Whenbutton366 is depressed,trigger mechanism370 tensions inner filament376. In one aspect,trigger mechanism370 include a ratchet-type lock that prevents the release of inner filament376 once tensioned. A button378 can be depressed to release inner filament376 and allow the distal end oftool10 to return to its original configuration.

FIGS. 2J and 2K illustrate one embodiment of a coupling mechanism that can be used to selectively couple thecontrol member20 to one or more control wires (i.e., control cables) within the tool10 (e.g., within catheter22). Thecoupler380 forms an end-wall that is positioned within the actuator housing between the support rails310a,310b. Thecoupler380 has a number of spring loadedpins382a,382b,382c, etc., positioned therethrough. Each of thepins382a,382b,382c, etc., is connected to a control cable that is moved by thehandle26 or the trigger mechanisms as described above. Each pin includes acable receiving notch384 therein that receives the ball or stop at the end of acorresponding control cable386a,386b,386c, etc. for the medical device. Secured by a cable terminal in theslots384, each pin allows the tensioning or release of the correspondingcables386a,386b,386c, etc. In the embodiment shown, each of thepins382a,382b,382c, etc. includes a spring388a,388b,388cthat biases the pin toward the distal end of thecontrol member20. Thesprings388 serve to tension the control cables within the body of the control when not being pulled by the actuator and biases the control handle to return to a home position.

To connect the cables ofcatheter22 oftool10 to thecontrol member20, the terminal ends of each of thecontrol cables386a,386b,386c, etc. are inserted into each of thecable receiving slots384 of the corresponding pins. Similarly, to disconnect the cable, the balls or cable ends are removed from thecable receiving slots384. Upon completion of a procedure, the catheter can be uncoupled from thecontrol member20, cleaned or sterilized for re-use or thrown away.

In one aspect, the various cables withincontrol member20 can be adjustably tensioned. For example, in one embodiment spring loaded pins382 can have a threaded connection with coupler380 (additional disconnect configurations are described below). Rotating pins382 can move pins laterally to control the tension on control wires mated to pins382. For example, rotating the pins382 can compress or relaxsprings388 and adjust tension on the control wires.

In another embodiment,tool10 does not include thecoupler380 or the spring and pin arrangement shown inFIG. 2J. In such an embodiment, thedisc328 mates with one end of the control wire(s) while a catheter articulation section and/or end effector mates with the other end of the control wire(s). Removing the springs can increase the tactile feedback and efficiency of thetool10, because the user need not overcome the bias of the springs when controlling thetool10.

Because the springs also return the catheter articulation to a home position (such as straight), a spring-less embodiment may not have this feature. However, for some procedures, it is preferable for the catheter and/or end effector to remain in a current position without automatically returning to a home position. The ability to leave thetool10 in a current position can free the user to perform another task instead of maintaining constant control overtool10.

In accordance with this need, either type of tool10 (springs or no springs) can include a mechanism for locking the catheter and/or end effector into place. One such mechanism includes a pawl that interlocks with teeth to stop actuation. In one aspect, the user can lock and unlock the actuation by manipulating a button, slide, or trigger mechanism that engages and disengages the pawl with the teeth.

The location of the pawl and teeth can vary, depending on the type of actuation it controls. For example, ahandle26 can be locked by providing a locking mechanism for the stem. A locking mechanism on the trigger, push-pull mechanism, etc. can lock the end effector in place. This can allow the user to position and lock a clamp in place for the duration of some other step of the procedure.

In another embodiment ofcontrol mechanism20,tool10 can include a orientation adjuster. In use, the orientation adjuster can allow a user to rotate the elongate body and distal end of a tool relative to controlmechanism20.FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section of the distal end ofcontrol mechanism20 withadjuster394.Adjuster394, in one aspect, can include aninner member392 having apassageway390. Thepassageway390 can mate with the elongate body (not illustrated) ofcatheter22. In one embodiment, the elongate body ofcatheter22 includes an outer sheath that fixedly mates to the inner surface ofpassageway390. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of mating mechanisms, such as, for example an adhesive, mechanical interlock, and/or frictional engagement can be used. In addition, theinner member392 can mate with the inner surface ofadjuster394. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 3,adjuster394 includes anaperture396 for a set screw for mating adjuster andinner member392. In another aspect, adjuster and394 andinner member392 can be fixedly mate via, for example, an adhesive. In addition, the adjuster and the inner member can be formed as a single body.

To change the rotational orientation ofcatheter22,adjuster394 can be rotated withincontrol member20. In one aspect, alocking collar395 can be tensioned to control the amount of friction between the control member andorientation adjuster394. For example, thelocking collar395 can be set to inhibit, but not prevent rotation of the adjuster, or set to prevent rotation until adjustment is desired. Sinceadjuster394 is mated toinner member392, andinner member392 is mated to the body ofcatheter22, rotatingadjuster394 causescatheter22 to rotate relative to controlmember20.

Alternate Handle Configurations

Described below are alternative control mechanisms for actuatingcatheter22 and/orend effector24.FIG. 4 illustrates handle261 having a “joystick” configuration. In general, a handle in joystick configuration stands on its end rather than on its side. In one aspect, the control member can include a trunnion-type configuration as describe above, that provides at least one degree of freedom to handle261. However, instead of the handle positioned orthogonally toshaft320 as described above, handle261 can be parallel to the axis ofshaft320. For example, handle261 can be co-linear withshaft320.

Forward-aft movement ofhandle261 can be achieved in a similar fashion to the trunnion and disk configuration discussed above. For example,control member20 ofFIG. 4 can includetrunnion316 that rotatably mates withside rails310a,310band a base317 that housesdisk328. Base317 can mate with cables (not illustrated) to control one degree of freedom ashandle261 is moved forward-aft.

Disk328 can reside in base317 and movably mate therewith. Twisting orrotating handle261 can rotatedisk328 to control another degree of freedom. For example,rotating handle261 about its axis can direct side-to-side movement of the catheter.

Handle261 can also include atrigger28 that controls, for example, a third degree of freedom.Actuating trigger28, in one aspect, can controldistal end effector24. The trigger mechanism withinhandle261 can have a configuration similar to the triggers discussed above. Thus, the control mechanism ofFIG. 4 can work in a similar fashion to the control members ofFIGS. 2A through 3, but withhandle261 in a different orientation compared withhandle26.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative handle orientation. Rotatinghandle262 around its axis (axis A-A) can control one degree of freedom. For example, rotating the top surface ofhandle262 away from the user can move the distal tip of the catheter down and rotating the top surface ofhandle262 toward the user can move the distal tip of the catheter up. Handle262 can also be rotated around an axis, such as, for example, an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the tool, to control another degree of freedom. In one aspect, handle262 can be rotated around axis B-B to control side-to-side movement of the distal end of the catheter. As shown inFIG. 5, rotation axes A-A and B-B are different from the longitudinal axis C-C of the body ofcontrol member20.

In one aspect, actuation is achieved via a control mechanism similar to those described above.FIG. 5 illustrates a trunnion and disk configuration similar to that ofhandles26,261 described above. Movement around axis B-B can rotatetrunnion316, while rotation ofhandle262 around its axis can movedisk328. However, unlike the mechanisms described above, handle262 can drivedisk328 via a belt and/or chain drive. Apulley50aconnected to handle262 can drivepulley50bviabelt52.Pulley50bcan mate with ashaft54 that extends todisk328.

Rotation around axis B-B can be driven through a frame or shaft (not illustrated) extending betweenhandle262 andtrunnion316 to transfer rotational force between the handle and trunnion. Rotational forces can additionally, or alternatively, be applied onshaft54 through the belt and pulley system.

In another embodiment, rotating thehandle262 around axis A-A actuates an end effector. This is just one of various actuation members discussed herein.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate handle263 defined at least in part by aflexible shaft60 that is articulated to controlcatheter22. In one aspect, bendingshaft60 up-down or left-right can control a degree of freedom. The distal end62 ofshaft60 can mate withcables61. Where two degrees of freedom are controlled via movement ofshaft60, four cables can mate withshaft60 and extend along a path proximate to the outer surface of the shaft. Bending of the shaft can pullcables61 by increasing the length of one side of the shaft. As the length ofshaft60 increases with bending, the cable adjacent to the lengthened side is pulled. While four cables and two degrees of freedom are illustrated inFIG. 6A, fewer cables and/or degrees of freedom could be provided.

In one aspect,shaft60 allows a user to control two degrees of freedom at once. Bending the shaft outside of the forward-aft or side-to-side plane (e.g., at a 45° angle to the forward-aft movement) can pull on two control cables that control separate degrees of freedom. Thus, a single motion can ofshaft60 can control two degrees of freedom simultaneously.

Shaft60 is formed, in one aspect, is formed from aspring65. As the shaft is bent, the coils along inside surface of the curve converge while on the opposite side of the shaft the coils move away from one another.Spring65 can also provide a neutral bias such that when the shaft is released, the catheter returns to a “home” or linear configuration. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the force required to bend the spring and the amount of bend can be chosen by varying the spring materials, the spring wind, pre-compression, and/or the spacing between coils.

Shaft60 could additionally or alternatively be formed from an elastomic material, such as flexible, compressible, resilient, and/or elastic materials that allow bending. In one aspect,shaft60 is formed from a flexible polymer or elastomer, such as, for example, silicon. In another aspect,shaft60 is formed from a series of wafers. Bending is achieved by expanding the distance between wafers along one side of the shaft and/or decreasing the distance between wafers on the opposite side of the shaft.

Shaft60 can further comprise anouter sheath63 that covers spring65 (or other material forming shaft60) to provide a barrier betweenspring65 and a user's hand. In one aspect,sheath63 can be formed of stretchable or loose material to permit actuation of the shaft. In addition, or alternatively,sheath63 can be formed of a lubricious material and/or include a lubricious coating to allowsheath63 to slide over the outer surface ofspring65 asshaft60 is bent.

Thecontrol member20 can also includepulleys64 which change the direction of the cables and the force applied through the cables. In one aspect, each cable corresponds to at least onepulley64.

Handle263 can, in one aspect, include a trigger, button, or finger loop to permit an additional degree of freedom. As illustrated inFIG. 6, handle263 can include afinger loop66 that is actuated by movement along the axis of the shaft. Pushingloop66 away from the shaft can actuate, for example,distal end effector24. Alternatively, or additionally, a user can moveloop66 towardshaft60 to actuate the end effector.

To increase user comfort,control member20 can include anarm rest68. A user can place his or her forearm inarm rest68 while grabbing and actuatingshaft60. Thearm rest68 can also deliver and/or isolate certain degrees of freedom of the control handle. For example, the tip movement can be isolated versus the entire control movement in one embodiment.

FIGS. 7A through 7C illustrate another exemplary embodiment of ahandle264 incorporating aflexible shaft60 extending between aproximal end100 and adistal end102. However, instead of directly graspingflexible shaft60, handle264 can include agrip104 for a user interface.Grip104 can have a variety of configurations. In one embodiment,grip104 includes an aperture for receiving a portion of a user's hand. In addition, the inner surface ofgrip104 can include atrigger106 for actuating an additional degree of freedom.

In one aspect, the distal end offlexible shaft60 remains stationary while the proximal end ofshaft60 is bent. In particular,shaft60 can extend in a distal to proximal direction fromcontrol member20 and/orcatheter22 such that pulleys are not needed to change the direction of the control wires. In use, bendingshaft60 in one direction can move the distal tip of the catheter in the opposite direction. For example, bending the shaft up can move the distal tip down and visa versa. However, control wires can be redirected or crossed if it is desired to change the correspondence betweenhandle264 and the distal tip of the catheter.

In another embodiment, instead of a flexible shaft, handle265 can drive gears to control at least one degree of freedom.FIGS. 8A through 8D illustrate gears that permit a user to control two degrees of freedom. Handle265 can include arigid shaft70 extending between a proximal anddistal end71,73. In one aspect, shaft pivots aroundproximal housing75 proximate toproximal end71. The proximal housing can include a first set of teeth72 (FIG. 8B) positioned on the proximal surface thereof. Forward-aftmovement cause teeth72 to drive agear74 as the first set ofteeth72 mesh with a second set ofteeth76 ongear74. Acontrol wire61amated withgear74 is then driven asgear74 rotates to control one degree of freedom.

To permit an addition degree of freedom,shaft70 can be moved side-to-side.FIG. 7B illustrateproximal housing75 mating with and driving a control wire. Side-to-side movement ofshaft70 pivotshousing75 which in turn drives asecond control wire61bmated with the housing. As the shaft moves side-to-side, the first and second set ofteeth72,76 can slide relative to one another. In one aspect, the proximal surface ofshaft70 has a semi-spherical shape such that as the shaft moves side-to-side, the first teeth do not loose contact with the second set of teeth.

In another aspect, instead of proximal housing mating withcontrol wire61b, ashaft80 can include a surface for mating with and drivingcontrol wire61b.Proximal housing75 can be anchored or supported via ashaft80 that extends through the proximal housing and throughslots78a,78b. Forward-aft movement of the shaft does not interfere withshaft80 becauseslots78a,78bhave an elongate shape that permitsshaft80 to remain in place ashousing75 moves relative toshaft80. Thus, forward-aft movement ofhousing75 is independent from shaft80 (for at least some distance). However, side-to-side movement ofshaft70 causesproximal housing75 to rotateshaft80 around an axis S-S (FIG. 8C) and drivecontrol wire61bmated withshaft80. In particular, with respect toFIG. 8B, the surface on whichcontrol wire61brests can be defined by a portion ofproximal housing75 or by a bulbous portion ofshaft80.

Alternatively, or additionally, a third and fourth set of teeth withinhousing75 can transmit side-to-side motion into push-pull motion on a control wire (e.g.,control wire61b). For example, as illustrated inFIG. 7D,proximal housing75 can includes a third set ofteeth82 that mesh with a fourth set ofteeth84 on asecond gear85. As theproximal housing75 moves side-to-side,teeth82 on the inner surface ofhousing75drive teeth84 ongear85 causinggear85 to rotate and drivecontrol wire61b(not illustrated). During forward-aft movement, the third and fourth sets ofteeth82,84 can slide relative to one another without transmitting force therebetween to permit independent control of two degrees of freedom.

These and other handle embodiments can be oriented ergonomically for greater comfort and usability. For example, returning toFIG. 1, handle26 is tilted off axis from parallel alignment withbody30 ofcontrol member20. In combination with the location oftrigger28, the orientation ofhandle26 provides for easy right-handed use of thecontrol member20.

An embodiment can include twocontrol members20,20′ mounted on aframe5 and oriented for left and right handedness, respectively, for simultaneous use. For example, a user may wish to control afirst tool10 with the right hand while controlling asecond tool10′ with the left hand. Orienting onehandle20′ for left-hand use and theother handle20 for right-hand use gives the user greater flexibility and comfort when usingtools10,10′.

Various tools described herein can provide ambidextrous use by permitting changing handedness. In one aspect, the tool handle can be changed between left-handed and right-handed. In another aspect, the user can switch the orientation of a tool on-the-fly. By doing so, the user can operate multiple combinations of tools with either hand during a single procedure.FIGS. 9A through 9K illustrate a few exemplary implementations of this feature. However, the teachings ofFIGS. 9A-9K can also apply to other handle embodiments described herein.

A first type of ambidextrous handle detaches from the control mechanism to permit a change in handedness. For example, the handle can be detached and flip upside down to change handedness.FIGS. 9A through 9C illustrate this concept with a tool similar to the one described with reference toFIG. 1.FIG. 9A presents the handle in a right-handed configuration. Thehandle269 includes afirst side269afacing up and asecond side269bfacing down. Each of the first andsecond sides269a,269bcan includes mating features339 for mating with thecontrol stem320. In this configuration, the trigger is positioned activation by a user's right hand index finger.

FIG. 9B illustrates handle268 detached fromstem320 and flipped over into a left-handed orientation. Thefirst side269anow faces downward, while thesecond side269bfaces upward. Themating feature339 on thefirst side269aalso faces downward, allowing the handle to mate withstem320.

FIG. 9C illustrates handle268 in the final mounted left-handed configuration. In this configuration, trigger28 is positioned for activation by the index finger of the user's left hand.

The mating features339 for engaging and disengaging the handle can comprise, for example, a variety of mechanical and frictional mating features. In one embodiment, the mating feature is an opening in for receiving a portion ofstem320. In another aspect, the opening extends from the top of thehandle267 to the bottom. The mating feature can also comprise a protrusion that mates with an opening in the shaft or control body. In still another embodiment, the two mating features339 are located on the same side of thehandle267 grip, but allow for attaching with thestem320 in order to suit different handedness.

A second type of ambidextrous handle is illustrated inFIGS. 9D and 9E. Unlike the previous type, thehandle266 can change the orientation oftrigger281 viarotating handle portion266a. In addition, handle266 can change orientation with respect tohouse30 ofcontrol member20 via rotation of handle226 between a right-handed configuration and a left handed configuration.

In one aspect, handle266 includes first andsecond handle portions266aand266brotatably connect with one another viapivot338. Rotatinghandle portion266awith respect to266b, changes the orientation oftrigger281. In addition,first handle portion266bcan rotatably connect to the stem or control body of the tool. Rotatinghandle portions266a,266btogether around stem320 changes the handedness ofhandle266.

As illustrated inFIG. 9D, therotatable portion266acan include a push-pull mechanism281 oriented for right-handed use. The push-pull mechanism281 is a trigger that operates much like a scissor, and allows the user to control an end effector and/or actuate a catheter. For example, the push-pull mechanism281 can push or pull a cable that runs through a hole inpivot338, and down thestem320 into the body of the control device.

By rotating both handleportions266aand266bby 180 degrees, as described above, the user effectively flips the push-pull mechanism281 to a different handedness.FIG. 9D includes a stem axis (axis S-S) and handle axis (axis H-H) for further clarity. Thefirst portion266bandsecond portion266arotate around the stem axis, while thesecond portion266aalso rotates around the handle axis. As a result, thefirst portion266band thesecond portion266aswitch sides, as shown inFIG. 9E. The orientation of thetrigger281 also reverses because it is attached to thefirst portion266a.

To allow for rotating the sections to change handedness, thehandle266 includes twoswitches291 and292 for locking/unlocking both handle portions. Switch291 locks and unlocks therotatable portion266afrom swiveling at thepivot338 with anglingportion266bengaging and disengaging a first mating structure (not pictured). Switch292 locks and unlocks the anglingportion266bof thehandle266 from thestem320 by engaging and disengaging a second mating structure (not pictured). Potential mating structures include a tooth, pin, clamp, detent system, strap, or any other known structure for mechanically locking and inhibiting movement between two members.

In another embodiment, bothportions291 and292 are unlocked with a single switch. As used herein, the switch can include a slide, button, or any other locking mechanism, such as a pin or screw.

The user can adjust thehandle266 to a more comfortable orientation in one embodiment by rotating theappropriate portion266aand/or266b. For example, the user can rotate the push-pull mechanism281 upwards and/or manipulating the horizontal orientation of the handle grip. When the user positions thehandle266 as desired, theportions266aand266bare locked in place.

A third type of ambidextrous handle, shown inFIG. 9F, can change handedness by rotating in only one plane.FIG. 9F illustrates ahandle269 that is round and contains aswitch284 in the form of a button. As illustrated, thehandle269 has a left-handed configuration, wherein the user controls switch284 with their left thumb.

To change the handedness, handle269 rotates relative to thecontrol body30 orstem320.Switch292 unlocks thehandle269 for rotation. In one embodiment, unlocking does not detach thehandle269 from thestem320 or controlbody30, but instead allows thehandle269 to rotate around thestem320. In another embodiment, thehandle269 remains locked to thestem320, but thehandle269 and stem320 rotate together, relative to thecontrol body30. Similarly, in embodiments where nostem320 exists, rotation may occur around some other axis, such as axis S-S. Even in embodiments that include astem320, such asFIG. 9F, rotation need not necessarily occur around an axis through the stem. For example, thehandle269 inFIG. 9F could alternatively rotate around axis S-S.

In an embodiment that accomplishes ambidexterity through this rotational approach, asingle opening339 can suffice for mating with the control stem.

FIGS. 9G through 9L illustrate some alternate handle embodiments that implement the rotational and detachable characteristics of handles already described. Some of these embodiments implement additional characteristics, such as a joystick configuration option.

FIG. 9G illustrates anambidextrous handle267 with a push-pull mechanism281 (another type of trigger). The push-pull mechanism281 pushes and pulls the inner-filament ofcable346, which transfers forces from thehandle267 to the end effector. As shown inFIG. 9G, the cable can exit thehandle267 from afirst exit point347ain one embodiment, or asecond exit point347bin another embodiment. An exterior cable allows the user to detach and flip thehandle267 even thoughhandle267 includes a trigger. In one embodiment, thetrigger281 can still be used whenhandle267 is detached.

In one embodiment, thecable346 passes though a firewall (such as described with reference toFIGS. 2H and 2I). Conversely, in another embodiment, thecable346 passes directly from the handle to the articulation section of the catheter, without the use of the firewall.

FIG. 9G also illustrates an exemplaryalternative cautery connection348 for use in cauterization procedures. Of course, other embodiments do not implement this feature but still use thehandle267 shown inFIG. 9B.

FIG. 9H illustrates ahandle268 that can change handedness by either detaching and flipping or by simply rotating relative to the stem. Because thetrigger282 and handle268 can conform to either hand without being flipped vertically, rotating the handle with respect the stem reorients the handle. Similarly, flipping the handle vertically also switches the handedness.

Thehandles268 illustrated inFIGS. 9I through 9L provide even further flexibility by providing anadditional opening349 to allow the user to stand the handle on end in joystick configuration. The user may, therefore, select to operate thehandle268 with the grip laying flat by connecting the handle at opening339, or as a joystick by connecting to the stem atopening349. As previously described,switch292 locks and unlocks thehandle268 from the control stem.

FIG. 9killustrates ahandle268 that includes amating feature349′ at the bottom of a rounded boss. This mating feature puts thehandle268 in pistol grip configuration, which is another type of joystick configuration. Handle268 also includes analternate mating feature349 for yet another joystick configuration.

FIG. 9L illustrates anambidextrous handle268 that can be flipped for orientation with either hand, and, alternatively, stood on its end in a joystick configuration.

The illustratedhandle268 includes arocker mechanism283, which is yet another type of trigger. Therocker mechanism282 allows a user to articulate the end effector and/or articulation section of a catheter by performing a rocking motion. Rather than swinging outward like a scissor, therocker mechanism282 incorporates a see-saw action, such that pushing one side down forces the other side up. Therocker mechanism282 can be spring-loaded for returning to a home position. Conversely, in another embodiment, the rocker remains in its last position until adjusted by the user.

The Catheter

Further described herein are alternative configurations of the catheter. In one aspect,catheter221 includesbody90 configured to provide increased torsional strength. As shown inFIGS. 10A through 10C,catheter221 can include a continuous body section having cut-outs92 to permit (or ease) flexing and/or bending. The catheter includes a series of opposing cut-outsections92a,92b(FIG. 10B) with each pair of opposing cut-outs adjacent another pair of opposing cut-outs92c,92d(FIG. 10B, 92dnot illustrated) positioned at an angle with respect thereto. In one aspect, adjacent cut-out pairs are offset by about 90 degrees. In particular, side cut-outpairs92c,92dare positioned adjacent to top-bottom cut-out pairs92a,92b. The cut-outs permit bending while the remaining body between the cut-outs can transfer torsional loads.

In another embodiment,catheter222 can transmit torsional loads via mechanical interlocks between adjacent catheter body segments.FIGS. 11A through 11C illustratesegments120 having articulatingmechanical interlocks122. The interlocks allow pivoting but do not allow rotation and/or translation of the segments with respect to one another. In other words, the mechanical interlocks limit at least one degree of freedom between adjacentcatheter body segments120.

In one aspect,mechanical interlocks122 include a male-female connection that permits only one degree of freedom. For example,male mating member124 can have an elongate, curved outer surface that is received in an elongatefemale mating member126 having a corresponding shape. While interlocked, the male mating member can pivot within the female mating member along an axis parallel to the elongate male and female mating members. However, the male-female interlock can inhibit pivotal movement on other axes. In addition, the male-female interlock can inhibit relative rotational, longitudinal, and/or transverse movement between the adjacent segments.

For example, with respect tosegments120a,120b(FIG. 11A) the mechanical interlocks permit up-down pivoting, but not side-to-side pivoting. Conversely,adjacent segment120ccan pivot side-to-side with respect tosegment120a, but the mechanical interlock betweensegments120aand120cprevent up-down pivoting. Taken together, the segments ofcatheter222 permit up-down and side-to-side articulation, but inhibit at least rotational movement between the segments. In this way, the segments maintain torsional integrity throughout the length ofcatheter222.

FIG. 11B shows a close-up side view of a ball socket (e.g., mechanical interlock). The socket ofsegment120aholds the curved member ofsegment120bin place by extending past thecenter point124′ of the curved member. In this way, the socket wraps more than half way around the curved member. As a result, the width of thesocket opening125bis less than the greatest diameter of thecurved member125a.

In addition, the curved member can be held in place laterally by the incorporation of one or more stops. For example, a the socket can have an inner wall that contacts the side of the curved member. In one embodiment, the contacted inner side of the curved member is flat. Providing an inner wall on the matching socket at the other side of the same segment can prevent the connected segment from sliding loose laterally. Alternatively or in addition, a stop can exist on the outer side of the curved member. The outer stop can also integrate with the socket in one embodiment.

An over sheath can also prevent slippage or separation of thesegments102aand120b. The over sheath may be an elongate bendable layer that surrounds the exterior of the segments. In addition to holding properties, the over sheath can prevent pinching when the catheter articulates.

In one embodiment, the segments include one ormore holes128 for receiving a cable. Theholes128 of each segment align such that the cable can be threaded though multiple sections over an articulation section. When the cable is pulled from the proximal end of the catheter, such as by the control mechanism, the segment(s) bend within the articulation section. In one embodiment, the articulation section can bend in multiple directions (e.g., left/right, up/down).

In another embodiment, the articulation section is comprised of at least one bendable and torque stable segment. While the segment(s) can be articulated from side to side and front to back, they remain rotationally rigid so that the end effector better withstands torsional forces.

FIGS. 12A through 12E illustrate another embodiment of acatheter223 utilizing mechanical interlocks for at least one degree of freedom. InFIG. 12A, the catheter includes an articulation section155 and arigid section154. When a user manipulates the handle oftool10, and articulates thecatheter223, articulation occurs along the articulation section155. The articulation section includes multiple joint segments mechanically interlocked via entrappingballs153.Cables133 or other structures apply the tension to flex the articulation joints. An over braid or other sheath covers the articulation joints to prevent pinching when the articulation joints flex.

FIG. 12B shows this arrangement in detail. The articulation section155 begins with a firstjoint segment152ainterlocked with a second joint segment152b. The entrappingball153 fits within a socket pivot point in second joint segment152b. By repeating this arrangement down the length of thearticulation section223, a chain of joint segments allow torque transfer from one segment to another. As a result, the articulation section achieves at least one degree of freedom.

In one embodiment, such as shown inFIG. 12C, the joint segments have a recess or opening defining a passageway. Through this passageway, one or more push-pull cables, electrical cables, lumens, and/or other tubing can access the end effector. In another embodiment, the joint segments are divided into quadrants.

While the articulation joints ofFIG. 12E allow only side-to-side movement of thearticulation section223,FIG. 12D depicts multiple joint segments interlocked via entrappingballs156aand156bthat allow for movement in two different planes. The articulation joints illustrated inFIG. 12D alternate in type. For example,segment157aincludes two entrappingballs156aand156b, one on each side, for movement in two separate planes. Conversely, thenext segment157bcontains no entrapping balls but has two mating sockets, one on each side, for connecting with the entrapping balls in two different planes.

The catheter can be driven by user inputs. These inputs drive the articulation section in one embodiment. In another embodiment, portions of the catheter other than the articulation section can also be driven. Articulation does not require bending separate parts. Instead, it more broadly refers to the bending of the body as a whole.

The articulation section ofFIGS. 12A though12E can be constructed by micro-welding the segments together. Entrapping the ball and socket reduces the chances of segments slipping loose from one another, and also provides a low cost articulation section because other parts are not necessarily required. Preferably, each socket entraps the ball for more than 180 degrees, as shown inFIGS. 12A through 12E.

FIGS. 12F and 12G illustrate another type of ball socket system.Curved member153 snaps into a socket. Thus, the catheter can be constructed from snapping together the segments. In addition, the segment body provides inner stops to keep the segments from sliding laterally.

FIGS. 13A through 13D illustrate yet another type of articulation joint for use in a catheter.FIG. 13A shows the cross section of a continuous structure225 (or series of structures), which forms a cross shape, dividing the inside of the catheter into fourquadrants165a,165b,165c, and165d. The quadrants can define lumens or channels within the catheter for the passage of control cables, medical devices, and/or fluids.Eyelets166 along the periphery of the structures receive control cables for articulating the catheter.

The articulation segments ofFIGS. 13A to 13D are fixedly mated with one another and/or formed of a single, continuous structure225 (or series of structures) that bends athinges167aand167b. In one aspect, hinges167a,167bare defined by living hinges. For example, areas of thin cross-section allow bending between adjacent segments and define the individual segments. The articulation joint materials and hinge construction (e.g., thickness) can be selected based on the desired force-to-bend ratio for the catheter. Suitable materials for constructing the articulation joints include stainless spring steel. Possible fabrication methods include precision stamping strips of metal or laser cutting the metal and then micro welding the strips together.

The degrees of freedom are controlled based on the position of the hinges withinbody164. In one aspect, each hinge only allow for bending in one plane with adjacent hinges offset from one another. For example, afirst hinge167acan permit up/down movement, while asecond hinge167bcan permit left/right movement. The shape segments and/or the hinges can control maximum bending limits for the catheter. For example, to restrict bending, thespace169 between adjacent segments can be narrowed.

A multidirectional hinge is also possible if thecontinuous structure225 is thin in both planes atpoint168.

FIGS. 14A through 14E illustrate another embodiment oftool10 including hydraulic control of at least one degree of freedom. In one aspect,catheter223 includes at least one fluid pathway that can receive a hydraulic fluid (e.g., generally any fluid and not necessarily “industrial” hydraulic fluids) to control one degree of freedom. In another aspect, two fluid pathways can be formed incatheter223. As shown inFIG. 14A,device10 can include twofluid actuators130a,130b, each fluid actuator corresponding to twofluid pathways132a,132band132c,132d, respectively. Thefluid actuators130a,130bcan deliver and withdraw fluid to cause expansion of the volume of at least one of the fluid pathways and thereby causecatheter223 to bend.

For example, when apiston head131aoffluid actuator130ais pressed inward and moves distally withinfluid actuator130a, thepiston head131aforces fluid out of thefluid actuator130aand intofluid pathway132a. While the amount of fluid in thefluid actuator130aon the distal side of thepiston head131adecreases, the amount of fluid in thefluid pathway132aincreases. Simultaneously, thispiston head131amovement draws fluid out offluid pathway132b, and intofluid actuator131aon the proximal side ofpiston head131a.

FIG. 14B illustrates a cross-sectional view of one exemplary aspect ofcatheter223. Eachfluid pathway132a,132b,132c,132dcan be positioned in different quadrants of the catheter. When the volume of fluid within one of the fluid pathways increases, the length of the portion of catheter which the fluid pathway occupies will increase causing the catheter to bend. Similarly, withdrawing fluid will cause a reduction in the length of one side of thecatheter223 and a bending toward the reduced-volume fluid pathway.

Alternatively, as illustrated inFIGS. 14C through 14E,catheter223 can have a configuration similar to the catheter illustratedFIGS. 9A through 9D. The cut-outs92 incatheter223 can define a portion offluid pathways132a,132b,132c,132dsuch that increasing the volume of fluid in a pathway causes the longitudinal length of the cut-out to increase. In one aspect, cut-outs92a,92b,92c, and9dare fluidly sealed. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 14C, anouter sheath136 can enclose thebody138 ofcatheter223 and cut-outs92. When the cut-outs increase in size or volume,outer sheath136 can stretch allowcatheter223 to bend.

In another embodiment, the shapes of inflatedfluid pathways132a,132b,132c, and132dcan be formed to affect the bending of the articulation section ofcatheter223. As fluid fills a particular pathway, the pressure forces the articulation section ofcatheter223 to conform to the shape of that fluid pathway. A user can use this embodiment to lock thecatheter223 into a particular curved shape, for example.

Whilecatheter222 is illustrated as having expandable fluid pathways (or cut-outs) along its whole length, in another aspect, only a portion of the catheter is articulating (i.e., the articulation section). For example, a distal portion of thecatheter223 can include cut-outs or fluidly expandable chambers or pathways to permit articulation.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the degree of articulation (i.e., the amount of bend) can be varied depending on the amount of hydraulic pressure applied and/or on the material ofcatheter223, the size of the fluid pathway, the shape of the fluid pathway, and/or the location of the fluid pathway.

Regardless of the configuration of the fluid pathways,catheter223, like the catheters described above, can include at least one channel for the passage of at least one medical tool. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 14B and 14C,channel134 is positioned along the central longitudinal axis of the catheter and is surrounded byfluid pathways132a,132b,132c,132d.Channel134 can serve as a lumen or multiple lumens in other embodiments.

Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the embodiments being indicated by the following claims.

A variety of alternative control members, which allow a distal end of tool40 to be actuated in the up/down, right/left, forward/backward, and rotational directions, can be used withsystem20. Such alternative control mechanisms are disclosed, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/165,593, entitled “Medical Device Control System” and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/474,114, entitled “Medical Device Control System,” both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims (9)

The invention claimed is:

1. A drive system, comprising:

a first tool adapted for use by a left hand; and

a second tool adapted for use by a right hand, the second tool comprising:

a single control handle;

a housing containing a control mechanism being driven by the control handle, wherein the control handle is coupled to the housing via a shaft, an entirety of the single control handle being configured to rotate relative to the housing about a first axis defined by the shaft and a second axis different from the first axis by moving the entirety of the single control handle, wherein each of the first axis and the second axis is different from a longitudinal axis of the housing, and wherein rotating the entirety of the single control handle about the second axis causes a corresponding rotation of the shaft about the second axis;

a catheter having an end effector and an articulation section proximal to the end effector comprising a plurality of segments that pivot relative to each other via a ball and socket mechanism; and

a first control cable including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end mating with the control mechanism and the distal end mating with the articulation section,

wherein the first control cable articulates the articulation section by transferring force generated by movement of the control handle about the first axis or the second axis.

2. The drive system ofclaim 1, wherein the control handle includes a trigger, and the end effector is articulated by the control handle and actuated by the trigger.

3. The drive system ofclaim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism that inhibits rotation of the control handle about at least one of the first axis or the second axis.

4. The drive system ofclaim 3, wherein the locking mechanism inhibits rotation of the control handle about each of the first axis and the second axis.

5. The drive system ofclaim 1, wherein the control handle is coupled to a trunnion having at least one pulley.

6. The drive system ofclaim 5, wherein the at least one pulley is fixedly mounted to the trunnion.

7. The drive system ofclaim 6, wherein the trunnion includes at least one post defining the second axis.

8. The drive system ofclaim 1, wherein the articulation section of the catheter includes a plurality of first segments mated with a plurality of second segments, each first segment being configured to pivot relative to each second segment.

9. The drive system ofclaim 8, wherein a proximal surface or a distal surface of each first or second segment defines a male mating member and the other of the proximal surface or the distal surface defines a female mating member, the female mating member of each first segment having a shape complementary to the male mating member of an adjacent second segment, each first and second segment including at least one channel extending through the male mating member but not through the female mating member.

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